For Sale at Auction: 1971 Porsche 911 in Newport, Rhode Island

Chassis No. 9111310164
Engine No. 6310372
Transmission No. 7116284 (See Text)

Driving enjoyment is at the heart of every Porsche. While it may not be an official slogan, the truth is self-evident in the number of Porsches turning out at events ranging from a Sunday morning parking lot show to the Corkscrew at Laguna Seca and everywhere in between. The reasons are far from complex. Porsche's vintage models are relatively simple, with robust construction; they drive as though an extension of the driver and they are supported by knowledgeable clubs and a worldwide following second to none. Naturally, each model has its devotees, but for the majority, if they could have just one, it would be an example such as this 1971 911 S Targa.

Completed at Porsche's Stuttgart Zuffenhausen works in October 1970, this U.S.-market 911 S Targa was ordered in Bahia Red with a Black leatherette interior. According to the accompanying Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, the car was additionally optioned with tinted glass 'all around' and a set of Pirelli tires. Introduced for the 1967 model year, the Targa was Porsche's most expensive body style, its removable roof and integrated roll bar giving it a distinctive profile. The name honored the Targa Florio, the Sicilian road race Porsche dominated for the better part of two decades. Added to this was the 911's highest mechanical specification, denoted S for Sport. Rated at 180 horsepower, the high-revving 2.2-liter flat-six produced 55 more than the standard 911 T thanks to forged pistons, a higher compression ratio, and Bosch mechanical fuel injection, with power delivered through a five-speed Type 901 'dogleg' transmission. The S specification also brought 15-inch forged Fuchs wheels, Koni shock absorbers, ventilated disc brakes, front and rear anti-roll bars, and a leather-covered steering wheel.

Following years of storage in Pennsylvania, chassis number 9111310164 was acquired by the consignor and treated to a complete restoration that began in 2016. Over the next seven years, the body was stripped and the floors received a fresh protective coating before the exterior was refinished in its factory-specified Bahia Red. All necessary seals, gaskets, lenses, hardware, and exterior trim were restored or replaced, while the foldable Targa top was recovered with a new headliner and exterior material. The U.S.-specification headlights were upgraded to European-style Bosch H4 units with chrome bezels, and new Fuchs wheels were installed with fresh center caps, lug nuts, and radial tires.

Attention then turned to the mechanicals, with the matching-numbers 2.2-liter S engine removed, inspected, fitted with pressure-fed chain tensioners, and resealed. The engine was mated to a fully refurbished correct type five-speed 901/01 transmission with a new clutch. The suspension and braking systems were comprehensively renewed with rebuilt calipers, new rotors, pads, hoses, ball joints, Koni shocks, and upgraded turbo tie rods. Inside, the cabin was reupholstered with new seat covers and pads, carpeting, dash top, door panels, and seatbelts, with the VDO instrumentation, radio, and clock restored. Over 30 pages of invoices are on file documenting the work.

The final product is truly a labor of love and, in keeping with this ethos, it has been started and driven selectively to ensure proper break-in procedures. This Bahia Red 911 S Targa presents an especially compelling opportunity to enjoy one of Porsche's most desirable early 911 configurations, combining the sporting character of the S specification with the open-air appeal of the Targa body. Fresh from a documented, years-long restoration and accompanied by a Porsche-issued CoA, its superb presentation, matching-numbers 2.2-liter S engine, and desirable factory specification make it an especially appealing example for both enthusiastic driving and discerning Porsche aficionados.